Lasik surgery is becoming a popular option for those who have less than perfect vision. Lasik surgery corrects vision problems and frequently allows patients to go without eyeglasses or contact lenses after the procedure. Getting a second chance at normal eyesight seems like a dream come true for those who wear corrective lenses, but Lasik surgery is not for everyone.

What is Lasik?Lasik is an abbreviation for Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis. It was first made available to the public in 1990 and is becoming increasingly popular. The procedure combines several techniques that use a laser to cut small flaps in the cornea, precise sections are removed, permanently altering the shape and correcting the refraction. This procedure can be adjusted to correct vision deficiencies such as myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. Lasik does not treat presbyopia, or near sightedness that occurs during middle age.

The Cost of Lasik SurgeryOne determining factor for many patients is the cost of Lasik surgery since it is not often covered by insurance policies. While many discounted Lasik procedures are advertised, it is necessary to exercise caution when shopping for the best deal on Lasik surgery. You only have one set of eyes and a discounted surgery by a shady doctor could result in irreparable damage. Oftentimes, low advertised Lasik surgery prices are only a scam to get patients to agree to the surgery, while additional fees and hidden costs are added to the bill. Most surgeons take the high cost of Lasik surgery into consideration and offer financing or payment plans for patients.

This is a far better option than settling for a discounted surgery. The cost of Lasik surgery ranges from $299 to $2500 per eye. Prices vary by region and surgeons with greater experience typically charge more for their services.

The Ideal Candidate for Lasik SurgeryThe ideal candidate for Lasik surgery is over the age of 18, has not had any changes in refraction for at least one year, and has realistic expectations about the risks and benefits of the procedure. No one who has had an eye injury or infection in the twelve months prior to the surgery should have Lasik surgery performed. Lasik surgery candidates must not be suffering from an autoimmune disorder such as HIV or Lupus. Patients who have had herpes infections of the eye should not have Lasik surgery since the procedure may cause a reoccurring outbreak of herpes. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not have Lasik surgery.

What Are the Benefits of Lasik Surgery?Nearly all patients who undergo Lasik surgery experience immediate improvement in their vision. The difference is noticed within a few minutes after the completion of the surgery and many patients see better after the procedure than they did while wearing corrective lenses before the surgery. As the eye heals, vision will improve even more with optimal results occurring at about six weeks after the surgery.

Once patients are no longer burdened with corrective lenses, they not only experience a freedom from uncomfortable glasses and the expense of caring for contact lenses, but they are eligible for other activities like pursuing a career in aviation and driving without a restricted license.

Lasik surgery also gives patients a great sense of self-esteem. Freedom from corrective lenses improves a person’s self-image and they may feel more comfortable with activities such as sports and swimming that were previously a concern with corrective lenses.

Preparing for Lasik Vision SurgeryWhen preparing for Lasik vision surgery, patients are required to remove their soft contact lenses for a period of two weeks. Those who wear hard contact lenses must remove their contacts for six weeks, with an additional six-week period added for every three years they have worn the contacts. Patients will also be prescribed an antibiotic prior to the Lasik vision surgery to help reduce the chance of infection following the surgery. If you have any allergies to antibiotics such as Penicillin, it is important to let your doctor know. One day before the surgery, patients are asked not to wear any makeup and avoid creams and lotions on the facial area that may trap debris in the eye.

Lasik surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure and does not require a hospital stay. The procedure itself takes less than 15 minutes. Most appointments take less than one hour, including preoperative preparation.

Common Side Effects of Lasik SurgeryAs with any surgery, a few common side effects can occur with Lasik surgery. Small blood vessels in the whites of the eye may seep small amounts of blood during the procedure causing the eye to look bloodshot for a few days. This is temporary and resolves without any intervention. Some patients will experience a problem with glare and decreased night vision for a short period after the procedure. These symptoms will also be resolved on their own. Many patients have the sensation of having a foreign body in their eye after the procedure. This is usually caused by an irritation that occurred during the procedure and is temporary.

Because Lasik surgery is performed very precisely with lasers, the procedure is nearly painless. Mild discomfort may be present for a few days following the surgery, but oral pain medication is prescribed to relieve any discomfort.

Potential Complications During Lasik Surgery RecoveryLasik surgery has the potential to produce unwanted complications just like any other surgery. Because the cornea of the eye is a delicate and complex area, it is possible that Lasik surgery could result in overcorrection or under correction of eyesight. Should this occur, corrective lenses rectify the condition.

Infection is always a risk with any surgical procedure. Postoperative antibiotic eye drops are prescribed and follow up appointments are scheduled to help minimize the chance of infection during the Lasik surgery recovery period. If an eye infection goes untreated, it could result in permanent scarring of the eye.

Rare corneal flap wrinkles are sometimes seen following Lasik surgery recovery and can be remedied by the surgeon once identified.

An overgrowth of epithelial cells under the corneal flap rarely occurs as the eye heals after Lasik surgery. This may resolve without intervention or the surgeon may need to surgically remove the overgrowth to prevent the cells from interfering with vision.

During the Lasik surgery recovery period, the surgeon will check for corneal scarring from the procedure. Although it rarely occurs, it could result in astigmatism that will need to be corrected with glasses or contacts.

Finding Lasik Surgery CentersFinding Lasik surgery centers in your area can be done by visiting your local optometrist, searching the yellow pages or looking on the Internet. Some Lasik surgery centers employ more than one surgeon and can offer a wider price range and more flexible surgery and appointment times. It is best to meet a Lasik surgeon face to face before deciding which Lasik surgery center is right for you.

Lasik surgery is not right for everyone and carries the chance of potential complications and great rewards. Getting the facts before deciding to meet with a Lasik surgeon is a great way to come prepared with informed and relevant questions and concerns. Ultimately, only a Lasik surgeon can decide if Lasik surgery is right for you.

Always Consult Your Physician FirstAlthough it is helpful to get health information by reading and talking with friends, make sure you consult your doctor first before trying any new treatment or changing your diet. Remember that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate the strength, purity or safety of herbs and supplements. Be sure to always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, speak with your doctor before taking medical action or changing your health routine. This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. LifeScript disclaims any liability for the decisions made by its readers based on the information provided.

Are You Taking Care Of Your Eye Health? As we age, vision and eye health deteriorate. By tackling your eye health problems now, you can prevent or slow the progression of vision loss in the future. While going to regular appointments with health care providers is smart, is it enough? Should you be eating more carrots and taking health supplements? When it comes to your eye health, how clearly do you see? Take this quiz and find out!